Akashi 明石

The town of Akashi prospered around Akashi Castle , which stood in a strategic position overlooking an important trade route and the Seto Inland Sea. The ruins of the castle, which still remain, are a popular cherry blossom spot in spring. Akashi has Uonotana Street, which is lined with about 100 shops focusing on seafood, fish paste products, and dried marine products, perfect for sampling while you stroll.

Akashi is well-connected by train. The Sanyo Electric Railway Line and JR Sanyo Main Line (Kobe Line) both pass through the city.

Akashi Castle sits on a hill in the center of the city. Originally built in the early 17th century as a possible defense against any invasion of Osaka from the western warlords, the castle was torn down in 1873 by the Meiji government. The main attractions are two three-story turrets and one of the largest stone walls in Japan, which stretches 380 meters from east to west. It is also a popular cherry blossom viewing spot, and has been selected as one of the top 100 best viewing spots in Japan.

Akashi is well known in Japan for a unique dish called akashiyaki (tamagoyaki), which is a round dough filled with octopus served in a light soup. For fans of seafood, it is worth a visit to Uonotana Shopping Street, which is said to have been built about 400 years ago. The popular shopping street sells seafood and fresh fish, and has about 100 store purveying fish paste, akashiyaki, and other restaurants.